Gardening Tips - Squash

Squash, Squash Bugs

Squash bugs are sucking insects and they love squash plants.

They lay their eggs on the backs of leaves, that is the time to deal with them. No need to spray unless they are out of hand or if the eggs have already hatched.

In a small garden with only a plant or two, It is very easy to find the eggs and using a flat object, squash them. Find the adults and squash them also.

If you have several plants, spraying or dusting is best. A good non-systemic pesticide that we have used for years is "Sevin", it works well and can be applied to edible crops but you need to remember that it not only kills the squash bugs but also benificial insects too.

Safer brand Insecticidal Soap is a much better natural alternative. It's a contact killer made from a blend of natural plant sources and pyrethrin oils that come from the chrysanthemum flower. You can use it up until the day of harvest, so it's pretty safe. You will need to apply it every 7-10 days when insects are present or as needed to prevent damage.

Keep an eye out for squash bugs and as soon as one or two show up, get rid of them quickly before they spread. Your squash plant will thank you for it!

When to pick Yellow or Zucchini Squash?

Yellow squash and zucchini squash are at their best when they are picked young, maybe six or seven inches long. The longer they stay on the bush or vine the harder the skin gets and the seeds get larger and tougher. So pick em when they are young and tender!